Our Roots
OUR ROOTS · SONOVA GROUP
From local workshop to global business
Our story begins in 1947 with the founding of AG für Elektroakustik in Zurich, Switzerland. What started as a small family business has grown into the purpose-led company Sonova is today, driven by the belief that hearing plays a vital role in people’s lives.
Sonova facts
Year founded in Zurich, Switzerland
Years of hearing innovation
Countries served worldwide
Entrepreneurs who shaped the first growth phase
The founding story
A defining moment came in 1965, when Andy Rihs took over the family business together with his brother Hans-Ueli Rihs and close friend Beda Diethelm. With entrepreneurial spirit and a long-term perspective, they set the company on a path of growth and helped shape what Sonova would become. They were guided by a clear vision: A world where everyone enjoys the delight of hearing and can live a life without limitations.
This vision continues to guide us today. It is reflected in our purpose and culture, shaped by a strong belief in people: because progress is only possible through the dedication, expertise and care of those who make it happen.
“A company is nothing without its dedicated people.”
— Founding philosophy, Sonova Group · Est. 1947
Milestones in our history
Since its foundation in 1947, Sonova has grown through continuous innovation and the steady development of its distribution network, expanding access to hearing care and creating long-term value for stakeholders.
1947
FOUNDATION
- Launch of AG für Elektroakustik in Zurich
The company is founded as a small workshop in Zurich, Switzerland – laying the foundation for what will become a global hearing care company.
1965
NEW ERA
- Beda Diethelm, Andy and Hans-Ueli Rihs join the company
The three entrepreneurs take over the business and initiate its first phase in growth, shaping a culture rooted in long-term thinking and a strong focus on people.
1994
cAPITAL mARKETS
- Going Public
The company is listed on the stock exchange, opening a new phase of growth and strengthening its global expansion.
1999
Phonak launches Claro
- Phonak launches Claro
Phonak introduces Claro, the first fully digital hearing system with an integrated FM receiver, marking an important step in hearing technology.
2000
eXPANSION
- Acquisition of Unitron Industries
The acquisition expands Sonova’s brand portfolio and strengthens its presence in key markets.
2003
oPERATIONS
- Opening of a new production facility in China
New manufacturing capabilities support global growth and help meet increasing demand for hearing solutions.
2006
PURPOSE
- Launch of the Hear the World Foundation
The foundation is established to support people in need – particularly children – in gaining access to hearing care worldwide.
2007
reBRAND
- Renaming of Phonak Holding AG to Sonova
The group adopts the name Sonova, reflecting its evolution into a more diversified global hearing care company.
2007-2016
GROWTH DECADE
- Series of strategic acquisitions
Through acquisitions, including Advanced Bionics, AudioNova, Hansaton, and ComfortAudio, Sonova expands its capabilities across hearing care and technologies.
2017
AUDIOLOGICAL CARE
- Establishing a global Audiological Care organization
A dedicated global structure is created to provide integrated hearing care services and strengthen patient-centered hearing care.
2024
LATEST INNOVATION MILESTONE
- Introduction of the Infinio Platform and first dual-chip AI technology
Phonak introduces the Infinio platform, combining a new dual chip technology and AI-based processing to deliver unprecedented speech clarity from any direction, particularly in complex listening environments.
Explore who we are today
From our roots as a small workshop in Zurich, we have grown into a global company with a clear purpose: Helping people everywhere to enjoy the delight of hearing.